The Art of Living: Hosting Brunch

Want to spoil Mom for Mother’s Day. Host a brunch. Brunch combines the best of all meals: You get to enjoy breakfast favorites like eggs and French toast and lunch favorites like savory breads and charcuterie. Toast her with a delicious “mom-osa,” and finish the meal with an indulgent dessert. What’s not to love?

Making brunch reservations at your favorite restaurant is easy and fun, but inviting your family to brunch at your home is an even better way to linger over conversation. Enjoy the Art of Living with these six tips for hosting brunch:

Ask For Help

Coordinate the meal by asking friends and family members to bring a dish. Those who love to cook can bring an entrée while others can pick up croissants or fresh fruit.

Keep The Brunch Menu Simple

Scrambled eggs are quicker and easier than individual omelets. Better yet, choose foods that can be made ahead of time and reheated, such as quiche or baked French toast.

Photo credit: Pinterest/FoodNetwork

Have One Main Course

While restaurant brunches have buffets that go on forever, at home limit the choices. The star of the show can be a spiral ham or tenderloin. (Here’s a great recipe from the Food Network.) Then add dishes by using a combination of savory and sweet, such as coffee cakes, fruit and herbed breads. Brunch is all about lingering over food, not being a slave to the kitchen.

Keep Place Settings Simple

If your garden has anything in bloom, cut springs and place one at each setting in a small bottle or glass. Brunch isn’t fussy; it’s casual and fun.

Set Up the Bar

Mimosas and Bloody Marys are brunch favorites and guests can serve themselves. Set up pitchers of orange and tomato juice near chilled bottles of champagne and vodka. Add garnishes such as orange slices and olives, and you’re ready to go.

Don’t Forget Caffeine

Get out your coffee maker and brew a pot before your guests arrive. Put out cream, sugar and mugs and let everyone help themselves. Prepare your coffee and filters ahead of time so you’re able to quickly replenish with another pot. Or you can always pick up a carryout container from your favorite coffee shop.

Mom is sure to feel special, especially when you do the cooking and clean up!